Ledger.com/Start® - Official Getting Started Guide

Welcome to Ledger® – Your Crypto, Secured

Welcome to the official start page for your Ledger® hardware wallet. This guide is your comprehensive onboarding resource, designed to help you set up your Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X and securely manage your digital assets. Ledger devices are trusted by millions globally for securing cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and thousands more.

1. Unboxing and Device Overview

Inside the box, you’ll find your Ledger hardware wallet, a USB-C cable, recovery sheets, and a getting started card. Before connecting it, always ensure the packaging is sealed and hasn’t been tampered with. Ledger® devices never come pre-configured — you must set up your unique PIN and recovery phrase.

2. Download Ledger Live

Go to Ledger.com/Start and download the Ledger Live app for your OS (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, or iOS). This app allows you to manage your assets, install apps, and access services like staking, swapping, and more — all in one dashboard.

3. Initialize Your Ledger Device

Follow these steps:

4. Confirm Recovery Phrase

The device will prompt you to confirm some words from your phrase. This ensures that you’ve recorded it correctly. Remember, Ledger does not store this information anywhere — if lost, your assets cannot be recovered without it.

5. Install Crypto Apps & Add Accounts

Using Ledger Live, install apps for coins you wish to use — Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc. Each app enables your device to sign transactions securely. Once installed, create accounts inside Ledger Live to start managing wallets.

6. Transfer Funds Securely

You can now receive crypto by sharing your public wallet address. Use Ledger Live to generate verified addresses. Always double-check that addresses match what’s displayed on the device screen. This prevents phishing or malware manipulation.

7. Tips for Maximum Security

8. Backup and Recovery

Your 24-word recovery phrase is the only backup of your wallet. You can use it to restore access on any Ledger device if yours is lost or damaged. Keep it in a fireproof safe or consider metal backup options for durability.

9. Common Questions

Q: Can Ledger be hacked? While no system is 100% immune, Ledger devices are among the most secure ways to store crypto. Your private keys never leave the device.

Q: What if I lose my device? As long as you have your recovery phrase, you can restore your assets on a new device.

Q: Is Ledger Live open source? Parts of it are open-source, and Ledger has regular audits to ensure software integrity and transparency.

10. Beyond Storage: DeFi, NFTs, and Staking

Ledger supports staking of assets like Ethereum, Solana, Polkadot, and more — allowing you to earn rewards. You can also manage NFTs securely through integrations with platforms like Ledger Market, MetaMask, and WalletConnect-enabled dApps.

11. Ledger Recover (Optional Service)

Ledger now offers an optional recovery service called Ledger Recover, powered by trusted providers. This service encrypts and shards your recovery phrase into secure, recoverable parts — ideal for users who fear losing their phrase. Learn more at Ledger.com/Recover.

12. Stay Updated and Safe

Always check for firmware updates in Ledger Live. Enable notifications and read official blog posts to stay informed about threats, improvements, and new features.

Conclusion: You’re Now in Control

By setting up your Ledger device, you’ve taken a major step toward securing your crypto journey. Remember: not your keys, not your coins. With Ledger, your keys stay in your hands — always.

Need help? Visit our Support Center or check the official blog for tutorials and updates.